Proposed shipping changes could cost the Australian economy in excess of $466 million over the next decade, increase freight rates by up to 16% and create peak job losses of 570 full time equivalents, a Deloitte Access Economics study has revealed.

The Coastal Trading Bill 2012 being introduced into the Parliament tomorrow must address the competitiveness and needs of consumers of shipping services if it is to be called a reform, said Ms Margie Thomson, a spokesperson for Australian dry bulk shipping users.